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The Champions League continues to be Chelsea's hard-to-catch prize. They desire it intensely. Yet, their credentials took a hit on Dutch soil, a stalemate against Twente not at all the ideal start in a competition they hope to dominate.

In spite of their control in possession, it was that struck first, through captain Danique van Ginkel, prior to Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success But European Heartbreak

Each piece of silverware is precious, yet for the team which has consistently won it all, the yearning for the final piece is intense. It eluded them during Emma Hayes’ reign, defeat to Barcelona in the championship match the nearest they came. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined defeat last season, have hurt on every occasion.

Team Changes Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased the team's strength for the trip to the Netherlands, featuring just four players from the last game in the lineup, but it proved costly as they began their European journey in a new era – the group stage replaced by expanded stage akin to the men's tournament.

These two teams met during the previous opening round, as Chelsea handing out a heavy overall loss to the Eredivisie winners. Van Ginkel stated they would appear somewhat different one year on. “I trust we've grown somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity Evident

On home turf that maturity was evident, the hosts avoided to match Chelsea's press or battle individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the visitors who launched repeated attacks at the home team.

The home side celebrate their captain after her first strike.

However, Twente had the top chance of the half. Leonie Vliek found space after a neat exchange with a teammate, but instead of shooting she passed to their leading striker who was denied by the defense.

There was energy yet missing teamwork, the rotations having an impact, particularly in the final third. A forward should have done better with a chance but fired over from close range in their best effort, and the goalkeeper helped keep Twente in it.

After the Break Action

In the second half, a new signing scored a goal, slotting home a driven ball, but the flag was raised, the passer having been offside.

The coach looked to her bench in an attempt to alter the dynamics shortly later. Two starters were replaced, including one with a head injury, for fresh legs and a former hosts' star.

Missed Chances

Twente had a clear opportunity to go ahead right around the 60-minute point. Having won the ball in the Chelsea third, a low cross reached a teammate in the box yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and with every passed without a goal, it seemed that Twente would be punished. However, it was the Blues ruing their poor finishing. A cutback found Van Ginkel who moved to her strong foot and struck past the goalkeeper.

Late Equalizer

The Blues kept pushing. They have not produced thrilling displays this term yet they've earned points and away from home they extended that trend. A foul on Guro Reiten earned the away side a spot-kick, though they could have had one sooner from a high foot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, yet they possess chances to bounce back against upcoming opponents before facing familiar foes and title winners.